Afterschool Worker
Job Description
ORGANISATIONAL BACKGROUND
For over 175 years, YMCA Dublin has been building safer,
stronger, and more inclusive communities. Through
affordable childcare, youth and family programmes, and
community support services, we empower young people,
support individuals and families, and create safe spaces
where everyone can thrive.
OUR PURPOSE
We believe everyone should have the opportunity to
belong to healthy, confident, secure and connected
communities.
OUR VALUES
Welcoming, Inclusive, Empowering, Caring, Responsible
CONTEXT FOR APPOINTMENT
This is an exciting time to join YMCA Dublin as we deliver
on our ambitious strategic plan to expand our reach and
deepen our impact by opening new Community Hubs
across Dublin. These hubs will provide vital services,
including affordable childcare, youth and family
programmes, and community support initiatives.
The first of these new Community Hubs will launch in North
Dublin in Spring/Summer 2025, spanning two locations: De
Verdon Place (Malahide Road, Dublin 17) and Parkside
(Belmayne, Dublin 13). Both facilities will offer School Age
Childcare (after school) services and youth work
programmes.
To support this expansion, we are recruiting afterschool
workers to help deliver these services. This is a key role
in creating an inclusive, play-inspired environment
where children and young people can thrive. The role
would suit a warm, enthusiastic individual who enjoys
working as part of a team and is passionate about
supporting children through play in a community
setting.
Terms & Conditions
Title Afterschool Worker
Reporting To Afterschool Supervisor
Place of Work De Verdon Place, Malahide Road, Dublin 17 plus
Parkside, Belmayne, Dublin 13
Working Hours Part-time– 22.5 hours per week during term-time (30-
40 hours per week during school holidays)
Nature of Post Permanent
Salary €15.40 per hour
Start Date TBC
ROLE SUMMARY
Under the supervision of the Afterschool Supervisor
Assist in the organisation & running of after schools provision for primary
school aged children on weekday afternoons during term time (5
sessions per week).
Assist in the organisation & running of all day provision for primary
school aged children during school holiday periods (5 sessions per
week).
Assist in the support of European Solidarity Corps (ESC) & Community
Employment (CE) workers.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Engaging with Children: Build positive, supportive relationships with children during playwork sessions, and encourage
and motivate children to actively participate in activities and discussions.
Planning and Development: Plan play-focused activities tailored to the needs and interests of the children.
Facilitating Activities: Lead and assist with age-appropriate activities, such as arts and crafts, music, and sports, to
stimulate creativity, teamwork, and personal development.
Role Model Behaviour: Serve as a positive role model by demonstrating respectful behaviour, kindness, and
responsibility.
Supervision: Collecting children from local school/s and escorting them safely back to the service.
Set-Up and Preparation: Preparation of spaces, materials and resources for activities, and basic snacks for snack times.
Organise and clean equipment before and after use to ensure a safe and clean environment.
Administration: Assist with the completion of daily checklists, attendance and work records, and observations of
children's progress.
Teamwork: Attend regular team meetings and contribute to discussions around development, challenges, and
improvements.
Parental Engagement: Provide updates on children's play experiences, and address any concerns raised by
parents/carers.
Training and Development: Undertake practical training related to playwork, safeguarding, and other relevant fields.
Compliance: Follow YMCA policies and procedures, especially those related to safeguarding, child protection, and health
& safety, and contribute to adherence with Tusla's National Quality Guidelines for SAC Services.
Any Other Duties: Be flexible and willing to take on additional tasks related to the delivery of YMCA services, as required.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
Essential Desirable
QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE
Minimum 2 years' experience of working with school- Recognised qualification in Youth Work, Childcare or
aged children in a regulated environment equivalent
Relevant first aid / food safety qualifications
KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS
Knowledge of child development & playwork KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS
approaches Knowledge of relevant regulations & legislation
Good interpersonal & communication skills Good organisational & administrative skills
Knowledge of safeguarding and health & safety Proficient in the use of ICT
Ability to actively engage children in play activities
Ability to work effectively as part of a team QUALITIES & CIRCUMSTANCES
Ability to positively engage with parents/carers Self-motivated & able to work on own initiative
Ability to work flexible and extended hours, including
QUALITIES & CIRCUMSTANCES mornings during holiday periods
Fluent in spoken & written English
Ability to participate in activities with children
Reliable, enthusiastic & compassionate
Willingness to undertake further training